Antique Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Pair of Vases Phoenix Motif 1860s

Description

View Antique Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Pair of Vases Phoenix Motif 1860s with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. Japanese Phoenix Motif. Excellent condition. They traditionally feature birds like long-tailed roosters, or phoenixes perched on flowering prunus (cherry or plum blossom) branches. The markings read 光舟刻 (Kōshū koku) in Japanese Kanji. The item is a pair of antique Japanese bronze vases featuring mixed-metal inlays from the Meiji period (1868–1912). Japanese Phoenix Motif. Excellent condition. The markings read 光舟刻 (Kōshū koku) in Japanese Kanji. Text Meaning * 光舟 (Kōshū): The signature of the artist. This name is most commonly associated with Miyabe Kōshū(宮部光舟), a renowned Japanese metalworker from Kyoto. * 刻 (koku): A suffix character meaning "carved by" or "incised by". Historical Context This signature style is typical of fine Japanese bronze vases created during the Meiji period (1868–1912). During this era, Japanese metal artists became world-famous for their incredible craftsmanship, often embedding detailed gold, silver, and mixed-metal patterns of birds and flowers onto patinated bronze objects. Key Characteristics & Origins * Artistry & Theme: These pieces are crafted using a combination of bronze with relief carvings and mixed metal detailing (such as gold, silver, or copper). They traditionally feature birds like long-tailed roosters, or phoenixes perched on flowering prunus (cherry or plum blossom) branches. * The Artist: These specific mirrored-design slender vases are often attributed to well-known metalwork artists or workshops from the era, most notably Mitsufune. * Design Feature: They are typically sold as a mirrored pair, meaning the birds face inward toward each other when placed side by side. They rest on dark, stylized wooden bases to keep them balanced and elevated. Materials & Craftsmanship While the rich, golden-brown patina can sometimes mimic the natural grain of aged bamboo or carved wood at a quick glance, these containers are made from heavyweight patinated bronze. The detailed textures of the feathers, flowers, and tree bark are meticulously chiseled and inlaid into the metal surface. Please take a look at all images and decide for yourself the condition of the item. Ask questions before purchase. By placing a bid, the buyer is agreeing to ALLterms, shipping charges, and the conditions presented. Please bid with confidence. Category: Antiques › Asian Antiques › Japan › Vases.

Primary Material

Bronze

Color

Bronze

Region of Origin

Japan

Country of Origin

Japan

Age

1850-1899

Maker

光舟 (Kōshū): Miyabe Kōshū(宮部光舟) Artist Signed